Gifts in Wills fund nearly a fifth of North London Hospice care

Almost one in five patients cared for by North London Hospice has their treatment funded by a gift left in a Will, the charity has reported. This funding stream is one of the largest single sources supporting the hospice's provision of free specialist palliative and end-of-life care to thousands of patients and their families annually across Barnet, Enfield, and Haringey.

Encouraging Legacy Giving

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North London Hospice is encouraging local residents to consider leaving a gift in their Will. The charity, established in 1984, has partnered with the National Free Wills Network and Octopus Legacy to offer free Will writing services. These partnerships aim to simplify the process for individuals who wish to make a Will, with no obligation to include a donation to the hospice, although many supporters choose to do so.

The National Free Wills Network facilitates face-to-face appointments with local solicitors, while Octopus Legacy provides an online service for those preferring to complete their Will from home. Guidance on these options and the decision-making process is available on the hospice's website.

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The hospice, which began as an idea in a Muswell Hill flat and developed into a purpose-built facility in North Finchley by 1992, now offers inpatient care, community nursing, day services, and family support. The need for these services is projected to increase, with the number of residents aged over 65 in Barnet expected to double by 2040. This demographic shift is anticipated to lead to more families requiring the hospice's support.

A patient testimonial shared by the charity highlighted a transformation in perception, moving from initial fear of a hospice being solely a place for dying to experiencing it as a facility that enhances the quality of life. This shift, from fear to reassurance, is the practical outcome of the care partly funded by legacy gifts.

Further information, including a legacy guide and contact details for the hospice team, can be found on the North London Hospice website. The charity states that every gift, regardless of size, contributes to enabling future care for families across north London.